PLATFORMS PRINCIPALLY FOR USE BY SWIMMERS

Abstract

Starting platform assemblies may be provided with swimming pools for competitive and/or recreational purposes. A starting platform assembly may include a frame supporting a starting platform. Starting platform assemblies may include various combinations of optional features such as but not limited to informational panels and displays, storage areas, side handles, backstroke bars, movable mounting steps, and/or wedge anchors.

Description

REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/215,730, filed on Jun. 28, 2021 and entitled PLATFORMS PRINCIPALLY FOR USE BY SWIMMERS, and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/291,869, filed on Dec. 20, 2021 and entitled STARTING PLATFORM WITH SIDE HANDLES, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This present invention relates to platforms and more particularly, although not necessarily exclusively, to starting platforms for competitive and other swimmers in swimming pools, spas, and/or other artificial or natural bodies of water.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Starting platforms, also known as “starting blocks,” “diving blocks,” and “diving platforms,” among others, are commonly mounted or supported at an edge of a pool or other body of water and may be used by a swimmer to enter into the pool, particularly for competitive swimming. Starting platforms are usually raised relative to a pool deck or other surface surrounding the body of water, and may allow for different types of entry into the pool. For example, a swimmer may start on the raised platform and dive or jump into the pool, or the swimmer may remain in the pool and hold onto the platform to pull themselves up before pushing away from the platform. Some starting platforms may include a handle for the swimmer to grab, but traditionally such handles are complex, only allow for a certain grabbing position, and/or define less natural or powerful pulling positions.

U.S. Pat. No. 7,058,994 to Weimer, et al. (“Weimer patent”) describes a conventional swimmer starting platform together with a system for anchoring the platform to a deck of a swimming pool. Included as parts of the platform of the Weimer patent are a cylindrical post extending vertically from an anchor, a diagonal support member welded to the post, a backstroke bar welded to the support member, and a solid flange extending between the backstroke bar and the support member. The entire contents of the Weimer patent are incorporated herein by this reference.

U.S. Pat. No. 10,035,034 to Hixon, et al. (“Hixon patent”) details another starting block and anchor system. Such a block may include a platform attached to “a carriage assembly including one or more stems” or posts. See Hixon, col. l, ll. 33-34. According to the Hixon patent, “[t]he stems may be detachably coupled to an anchor embedded in concrete of any suitable material of a pool deck.” See id., ll. 35-37 (numerals omitted). The entire contents of the Hixon patent are incorporated herein as well by this reference.

SUMMARY

Embodiments covered by this patent are defined by the claims below, not this summary. This summary is a high-level overview of various embodiments and introduces some of the concepts that are further described in the Detailed Description section below. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used in isolation to determine the scope of the claimed subject matter. The subject matter should be understood by reference to appropriate portions of the entire specification of this patent, any or all drawings, and each claim.

According to certain embodiments, a platform assembly includes at least one of an informational panel, a storage device, or a display region.

According to various embodiments, a swimmer starting platform assembly includes a frame and each of an informational panel, a storage device, and a display region either attached to or formed by the frame.

According to some embodiments, a method of changing the appearance of a swimmer starting platform assembly includes detaching a first panel from a frame of the assembly and attaching a second panel to the frame of the assembly.

According to various embodiments, a starting platform assembly includes a starting platform and side handles, and the side handles extend at angle in the range of 65°-115° relative to the starting platform.

According to certain embodiments, a starting platform assembly includes a starting platform and side handles, and the side handles each include a parallel handle portion extending parallel to the starting platform and a perpendicular handle portion extending at angle in the range of 65°-115° relative to the starting platform.

According to some embodiments, a side handle for a starting platform assembly includes a base, a parallel handle portion, and a perpendicular handle portion. The base may connect the side handle to the starting platform such that the parallel handle portion extends parallel to the starting platform and the perpendicular handle portion extends perpendicular to the starting platform.

According to various embodiments, a starting platform assembly includes a starting platform and side handles, and the side handles extend perpendicular to the starting platform.

According to various embodiments, a starting platform assembly includes a starting platform and side handles, and the side handles each include a parallel handle portion extending parallel to the starting platform and a perpendicular handle portion extending perpendicular to the starting platform.

According to certain embodiments, a wedge anchor for a starting platform assembly includes an anchor body for receiving a portion of a frame of the starting platform assembly and anchor wings extending outwards from the anchor body.

According to some embodiments, a backstroke bar for a starting platform includes a first set of vertical handles and a second set of vertical handles. The first set of vertical handles may span a first distance, and the second set of vertical handles may span a second distance different from the first distance.

According to certain embodiments, a backstroke bar for a starting platform includes at least one upper vertical handle and at least one lower vertical handle, and the at least one upper vertical handle is not vertically aligned with the at least one lower vertical handle.

Various implementations described herein may include additional systems, methods, features, and advantages, which cannot necessarily be expressly disclosed herein but will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following detailed description and accompanying drawings. It is intended that all such systems, methods, features, and advantages be included within the present disclosure and protected by the accompanying claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The specification makes reference to the following appended figures, in which use of like reference numerals in different figures is intended to illustrate like or analogous components.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a platform assembly according to embodiments.

FIG. 2 is another perspective view of the platform assembly of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is another perspective view of a portion of the platform assembly of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a tray feature of the platform assembly of FIG. 1 according to embodiments.

FIG. 5 is another perspective view of the tray feature of FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 is another perspective view of the tray feature of FIG. 4.

FIG. 7 is another perspective view of the tray feature of FIG. 4.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a first side handle of the platform assembly of FIG. 1 according to embodiments.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of second side handle of the platform assembly of FIG. 1 according to embodiments.

FIG. 10 is a side view of a gripping portion of the first side handle of FIG. 8.

FIG. 11 is an end view of the gripping portion of the first side handle of FIG. 8.

FIG. 12 is a side view of a frame of the platform assembly of FIG. 1 according to embodiments.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the frame of FIG. 12 with an informational panel according to embodiments.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a removable display for the platform assembly of FIG. 1 according to embodiments.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of another removable display for the platform assembly of FIG. 1 according to embodiments.

FIG. 16 is a partially exploded view of the removable display of FIG. 15 removed from the platform assembly of FIG. 1.

FIG. 17 illustrates another removable display for the platform assembly of FIG. 1 according to embodiments.

FIG. 18 is another perspective view of the removable display of FIG. 17.

FIG. 19 is an exploded view of the removable display of FIG. 17.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a platform assembly with a retractable mounting step according to embodiments.

FIG. 21 is a side view of the platform assembly of FIG. 20 with the mounting step in a retracted position.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a platform assembly according to embodiments.

FIG. 23 is an end view of the platform assembly of FIG. 22.

FIG. 24 is a side view of the platform assembly of FIG. 22.

FIG. 25 is a top view of a side handle of the platform assembly of FIG. 22

FIG. 26 is a is an end view of a backstroke bar of the platform assembly of FIG. 22.

FIG. 27 is a perspective view of a wedge anchor for a platform assembly according to embodiments.

FIG. 28 is a sectional view of the wedge anchor of FIG. 27.

FIG. 29 is an exploded view of the wedge anchor of FIG. 27.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

The present invention provides alternatives and improvements to platforms and blocks of the Weimer and Hixon patents. Summaries of features, any or all of which optionally may be included in assemblies of the invention, are discussed below, but the below description should not be considered limiting on the disclosure, and various other benefits and advantages may be realized with the disclosed starting platform.

In some embodiments, a starting platform according to embodiments of the disclosure may include an informational panel (e.g., a panel with a sponsor's information, school information, training information, etc.). A traditional approach has been to hang a banner of an ad hoc design panel or to embed the logo, color, etc. of the school or sponsor in the starting platform top. However, such traditional banners get worn, faded, water and chlorine deteriorated. A starting platform according to embodiments of the disclosure may provide a permanent, professional look, may be somewhat weather protected under the platform top, and/or manufactured with UV and chemical resistant materials. In such embodiments, an integrated fastening or support system may be provided within a substructure or frame of the starting platform for supporting or otherwise receiving a panel. In certain embodiments, the panel may include various visual features and/or designs as desired, including but not limited to sponsors' logos, school logos, mascot figures, tradenames, a lane identification, combinations thereof, and/or other visual features or designs as desired. The panel may be a two-sided panel with visual features of each side, thereby allowing for viewing of the visual features from a plurality of viewing points. In certain embodiments, the informational panel may be colored and/or include visual features (optionally in combination with a substructure of the starting platform) complimentary to and/or matching a sponsor's color scheme. In some embodiments, the informational panel advantageously may be removable and/or replaceable, thereby allowing for improved customization of the starting platform.

In certain embodiments, starting platforms according to embodiments of the disclosure include a wedge anchor. In such embodiments, anchor wings may be included with the anchor, which may facilitate securing of the anchor to rebar and may facilitate electrical bonding to the rebar or other grounded members within a concrete pool deck. In various embodiments, the anchor wings may ensure that the anchor is properly positioned relative to the pool wall and held securely in place during the installation of the deck or portions thereof.

In various embodiments, starting platforms described herein may include an improved backstroke bar. In such embodiments, the backstroke bar may include at least two different spans of vertical handles. Different spans of vertical handles may allow the starting platform to conform to swimming rulings and standards set by all ruling bodies (e.g., FINA, NCAA, USA Swimming, US Master Swimming, and the National Federation of St. High School Associations). The different spans of vertical handles may also allow the starting platform to accommodate a range of sizes from elite to child swimmers.

In some embodiments, improved starting platforms described herein may include side handles that extend generally perpendicular to (or generally outwards from) the starting platform. As used herein, “perpendicular” in the context of the described embodiments refers to angles in the range of approximately 65°-approximately 115°, inclusive, and the outwardly extending side handles need not be exactly 65° to the starting platform (although they could be). Such side handles extending perpendicular to the starting platform may define a more natural and/or powerful pulling position for swimmers compared to traditional starting blocks. For example, the side handles extending perpendicular to the starting platform may be configured to engage the entire hand of the swimmer. Optionally, starting platforms with the side handles described herein may promote or encourage athletes to engage the starting platform with three power phases—front leg push, back leg push, and arms pulling—while also allowing for the order of power phases to be performed in any desired order (e.g., depending upon starting style, body type, particular strengths, etc.). In certain embodiments, the side handles described herein may include handle portions extending in at least two directions relative to the starting platform such that multiple types of pulling motions can be performed on the same platform. For example, in some embodiments, the side handles described herein include a generally perpendicular handle portion that extends perpendicular to the starting platform and a generally parallel handle portion that extends parallel to the starting platform. As used herein, “parallel” handle portions extend in a vertical plane that is parallel to a vertical plane of an axis of the starting platform; however within the vertical plane, the handle portions need not necessarily be parallel to a horizontal plane of the starting platform (e.g., they could be angled downwards towards the starting platform, up and away from the starting platform, or parallel to the horizontal plate of the starting platform).

In various embodiments, starting platforms described herein may include a tray feature. Competitive swimmers often come to a swimming meet with various forms of personal items (e.g., phones, keys, etc.) and/or competitive swimming accessories (e.g., towels, goggles, swim caps, etc.). Historically these have been left in a pile on the pool deck, or in a plastic bin/container sitting on the deck, which makes the items susceptible to water, chlorine, theft, etc. Starting platforms described herein may include a tray to hold and/or contain the items of the swimmer. Optionally, such a tray feature may be water-protected and/or at a location offset above the pool deck. Tray features described herein may thus provide containment and support of the swimmer's items, and may provide improved security to the items while stored. In certain embodiments, the tray feature may have a color and/or other visual characteristics matching the color scheme of a school, sponsor, and/or as otherwise desired. Optionally, the tray feature includes a hanging feature, which may be utilized to hang items such as towels and goggles.

In certain embodiments, starting platforms described herein may include a removable display, such as but not limited to a trainer's display and/or a lane number plate. Such displays may be attached or removed using various techniques or mechanisms as desired, including but not limited to magnets, clips, hooks, clasps, combinations thereof, and/or other mechanisms, devices, or techniques as desired. During competitive swim training, each swimmer may have individual exercises that a coach has outlined for them to execute. However, because these exercises are individual to each swimmer and change frequently, traditional exercises are printed or handwritten on paper, and the swimmer typically leaves them at the end of the pool for reference and to mark as complete over the course of the training. Starting platforms described herein may provide a location to easily attach and/or remove a display board without tools. Such a display board may be various types of display boards as desired, including but not limited to boards that a person may write on and/or attach items. In one non-limiting example, the display board may be an erasable display board such as but not limited to a white board. Starting platforms with the removable display may allow the visual information (e.g., lane number, individual instructions, etc.) to be elevated off the pool deck, which may allow for a swimmer to observe information on the display without requiring the swimmer to stop, reach up, and find the paper on the deck (with their wet hands) to read the next exercise.

According to some embodiments, starting platforms described herein may include a retractable mounting step. Traditionally, mounting steps on swimming platforms protrude a width of the top of the platform. However, many swimmers do not require such mounting steps, and the presence of a mounting step may be considered an obstruction. Starting platforms described herein optionally include a mounting step that allows the mounting step to be retracted or deployed as needed. The mounting step may use various devices or mechanisms to move between a retracted position and a deployed position. In one non-limiting example, the mounting step may be hinged, thereby allowing the mounting step to be retracted under the starting platform top and deployed only when needed. Other devices or mechanisms may be utilized as desired.

The aforementioned features are provided for illustrative purposes only and should not be considered limiting. As mentioned, any combination (including all) of the features described above may be utilized on the starting platform. Various other features, benefits, and advantages may be realized with the disclosed starting platform.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Described herein are starting platforms with various improved features. The features described below may be used in any combination as desired, and thus the particular combination of features illustrated on a single starting platform should not be considered limiting.

FIGS. 1-3 illustrate a platform assembly 10 according to embodiments of the disclosure. The platform assembly 10 may be configured for various uses as desired, including but not limited to a starting platform for a swimmer. The platform assembly 10 generally includes a frame 62 supporting a platform 14.

The platform 14 includes a top surface 20, a front end 12, and a back end 16. When installed, the front end 12 may be the portion of the platform 14 most proximate to the pool. The platform 14 may have various shapes as desired, and in the embodiment illustrated, the platform 14 has a generally rectangular shape. Optionally, a gripping material or gripping structure such as treading, rubber, etc. may be provided on the top surface 20 to provide an improved surface that the swimmer may stand on, particularly if she or he is not dry. In some embodiments, the platform 14 optionally may be sloped or angled downwards from the back end 16 to the front end 12 (i.e., the front end 12 is lower than the back end 16) by changing a thickness of the starting platform 14, angling the starting platform 14 via the frame 62 or other support or mounting structure that mounts the starting platform assembly 10 relative to the pool, or as otherwise desired. In other embodiments, the platform 14 need not be sloped or angled.

Optionally, a raised portion 18 (such as a starting assist device) may be supported on the platform 14. When included, the raised portion 18 may extend at an angle relative to the top surface 20, and a user may engage the raised portion 18 by pushing against it when diving or jumping. In certain aspects, the position of the raised portion 18 may be adjustable between the front end 12 and the back end 16 as desired and using various mechanisms such as pins and notches, clips, clasps, sliders, and/or other suitable devices as desired. In some embodiments, the raised portion 18 is removably coupled to the platform 14.

As discussed in detail below, in addition to the platform 14 and the frame 62, starting platforms according to embodiments of the disclosure may include various combinations of optional features such as tray features, side handles, sponsors' panels, removable displays, mounting steps, and backstroke bars. As non-limiting examples: FIGS. 1-3 illustrate the platform assembly 10 with a tray feature 34, side handles 22, an informational panel 38, a removable display 42, a backstroke bar 30, and a mounting step 26; FIGS. 20 and 21 illustrate a platform assembly 2010 that is substantially similar to the platform assembly 10 except that it omits the tray feature 34 and includes a different embodiment of a mounting step 2026; and FIGS. 22-24 illustrate a platform assembly 2210 that is substantially similar to the platform assembly 10 except that the platform assembly 2210 omits the tray feature 34 and includes a different embodiment of a backstroke bar 2230 and a different embodiment of side handles 2222.

Tray Feature

Referring to FIGS. 1-7, in some embodiments, the tray feature 34 may be included with a platform assembly. In certain embodiments, and as best illustrated in FIG. 2, the tray feature 34 may span approximately the width of the platform assembly 10, and the tray feature 34 also may be positioned on the assembly 10 proximate to the back end 16 (i.e., away from the pool) so as not to impede a swimmer launching from the platform 14 into the pool. As best illustrated in FIGS. 4-7, the tray feature 34 may be elongated and define a storage area 24 that may be used by a swimmer or other user to temporarily store items. Optionally, one or more drainage apertures 28 may be defined in the tray feature 34.

In some embodiments, the tray feature 34 further may include upstanding tabs or protrusions 46 about which items may be hung or suspended. As an example, a towel 19 (FIGS. 2 and 3) or goggles may be hung by a user on the protrusions 46.

A support 50 such as but not limited to a metallic clip or bracket may be used to attach the tray feature 34 to the platform assembly 10. Persons skilled in the relevant art, however, will recognize that the tray feature 34 may be sized, shaped, positioned on, and attached to the assembly 10 differently than as depicted in FIG. 2.

The tray feature 34 may be constructed from various materials and include various dimensions as desired. In one non-limiting example, the tray feature 34 may be constructed of rigid polyethylene having a thickness of approximately six millimeters. Again, however, skilled persons understand that the tray feature 34 may be made of other materials and thicknesses and attached in any suitable way. In other embodiments, and as illustrated in FIGS. 20 and 22, for example, the tray feature 34 may be omitted.

Side Handles

Referring to FIGS. 1, 2, and 8-11, in certain embodiments the platform assembly 10 includes one or more side handles 22. In certain embodiments, the platform assembly 10 generally includes two side handles 22—a right side handle 22A on a right side of the platform 14 and a left side handle 22B on a left side of the platform 14 as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2. In such embodiments and as illustrated by comparing FIG. 8 (right side handle 22A) with FIG. 9 (left side handle 22B), the side handles 22A-B may be mirrored structures.

The side handles 22A-B may be coupled to the platform 14 as desired. As some non-limiting examples, the side handles 22A-B may be coupled to the sides of the platform 14, coupled to a bottom surface of the platform 14, or may be a single unit that extends beneath and/or from the sides of the platform 14. The side handles 22A-B may be coupled to the platform 14 using various techniques or mechanisms as desired, including but not limited to mechanical fasteners, welding, chemical fasteners, combinations thereof, or other suitable mechanisms as desired. Optionally, the side handles 22A-B may be monolithically or integrally formed with the starting platform.

As best illustrated in FIGS. 8-11, each side handle 22A-B generally includes a base 54 and a handle portion 56, and during use, the user may grip the handle portion 56. The base 54 may connect the side handles 22A-B with the platform 14, and as illustrated, the base 54 may protrude upward such that the handle portion 56 is positioned upwards relative to the platform 14 for grasping by a swimmer. The bases 54 of the side handle 22A-B may extend from the sides of the platform 14. In certain embodiments, the bases 54 extend from the sides of the platform 14 at locations between the ends 12, 16, although the particular location relative to the ends 12, 16 should not be considered limiting.

In certain embodiments, and as best illustrated in FIG. 1, the handle portions 56 are parallel handle portions that extend generally parallel to a center axis of the platform 14 (see center axis 60 of platform 14 in FIG. 22). Optionally, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 8-11, a grip 58 is provided on the handle portion 56. The grip 58 may formed of synthetic or natural rubber or other high-friction material as desired. FIG. 20 illustrates another example of side handles 2022A-B with parallel handle portions 56.

FIGS. 22-25 illustrate another embodiment of side handles 2222A-B that are substantially similar to the side handles 22A-B except that the side handles 2222A-B additionally include perpendicular handle portions 2264. In these embodiments, each perpendicular handle portion 2264 extends generally perpendicular to the center axis 60 of the platform 14. In some embodiments, the handle portion 2264 extends at an angle between approximately 65°-approximately 115° relative to the center axis 60 of the platform 14. In certain embodiments, each side handle 2222A-B also includes the parallel handle portion 56 that extends generally parallel to the center axis 60. One or both of the handle portions 56, 2264 optionally may include a gripping material (such as the grip 58) to provide an improved engagement with the swimmer's hands when gripped.

The perpendicular handle portions 2264 extend outwards from the sides of the platform 14 and in opposing directions. In certain embodiments, the handle portions 2264 extend outwards at locations between the ends 12, 16 of the platform 14, although the particular locations relative to the ends 12, 16 should not be considered limiting. The perpendicular handle portions 2264 extending perpendicular to the center axis 60 (e.g., at an angle in the range of between approximately 65°-approximately 115°, inclusive) may provide a gripping location for the swimmer relative to the platform 14 that is a more natural and/or powerful pulling position compared to traditional starting blocks. For example, the swimmer's hand engages the perpendicular gripping location with the swimmer's hand perpendicular to his/her direction of movement rather than parallel. As a non-limiting example, a swimmer may grab the perpendicular handle portions 2264 with her or his entire hand, which may be a more natural and/or powerful position for pulling “back” towards the back end 16 of the platform 14.

The parallel handle portions 56 may connect the bases 54 with the perpendicular handle portions 2264 and define a secondary gripping location for a swimmer in addition to the perpendicular handle portions 2264. As mentioned, the parallel handle portions 56 may extend parallel to the center axis 60 and perpendicular to the perpendicular handle portions 2264. The parallel handle portions 56 may be angled downwards towards the starting platform, up and away from the starting platform, or parallel to the horizontal plate of the starting platform. In certain embodiments, the parallel handle portions 56 are offset from the respective sides of the platform 14. As illustrated in FIG. 25, the parallel handle portions 56 optionally have a length that is greater than a length of the perpendicular handle portions 2264. Additionally or alternatively, and as illustrated in FIG. 22, the parallel handle portions 56 optionally have a length that is less than a length of the platform 14 (i.e., the distance from the front end 12 to the back end 16). When the parallel handle portions 56 are included, the swimmer may utilize the side handles 2222A-B by gripping either the perpendicular handle portions 2264 or the parallel handle portions 56.

The starting platforms with the side handles 2222 having the parallel handle portions 56 and the perpendicular handle portions 2264 thus provide improved gripping locations for the swimmer that permit the swimmer to engage the swimming platform in a more natural and powerful position, particularly for swimmers pulling “back” towards the rear of the starting platform. The side handles 2222 also provide more than one gripping location such that a swimmer can engage the platform assembly 2210 with various pulling motions as desired, including the ability to pull parallel to the platform 14 (using parallel handle portions) or pull perpendicular to the platform 14 (using the perpendicular handle portions).

Informational Panel

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 13, in certain embodiments, the platform assembly 10 includes an informational panel 38. As best illustrated in FIG. 12 in which the informational panel 38 has been removed from the frame 62, the frame 62 of the platform assembly 10 may define a region 66 in which the panel 38 may be positioned. In certain embodiments, and as illustrated in FIG. 12, the frame 62 may include various mounting features for receiving and/or supporting the panel 38. In the embodiment illustrated, the mounting features include flanges 69 with openings 70 to receive, together with the panel 38, fasteners affixing the panel 38 to the frame 62. In other embodiments, the mounting features may be various other devices or mechanisms as desired, including but not limited to clips, clasps, hooks, pins, bolts, magnets, combinations thereof, or other mechanisms as desired. Merely by removing the fasteners (or other mounting mechanism), the panel 38 may be replaced as desired.

The panel 38 may be a generally planar construction having a first side or surface 39 (see FIGS. 1 and 13) and a second side or surface opposite from the first side or surface (i.e., facing in an opposite direction from the first surface 39). The panel 38 may be constructed from various materials as desired suitable for a pool or water environment, and optionally the panel 38 may be constructed from UV and/or chemical resistant materials. The positioning of the panel 38 within the frame 62 and underneath the platform 14 may further provide protection to the panel 38. The panel 38 may thus have improved durability and provide a more permanent and professional looking appearance.

In various embodiments, one or both surfaces of the panel 39 may include various colors and/or visual indicators as desired. As a non-limiting example, the panel 38 may include text of a sponsor, school, organization, event, etc. as desired. Additionally or alternatively, the panel 38 may include other information such as a lane identification, advertisement, sponsors' logos, school logos, mascot figures, tradenames, a lane identification, combinations thereof, and/or other visual features or designs as desired as desired. In certain embodiments, the informational panel may be colored and/or include visual features (optionally in combination with a substructure of the starting platform) complimentary to and/or matching a sponsor's color scheme.

In various embodiments, and as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 13, the informational panel 38 is supported on the frame 62 such that both surfaces are observable (e.g., from both sides of the platform 10), thereby allowing for viewing of the visual features from a plurality of viewing points. In some embodiments, the informational panel advantageously may be removable and/or replaceable, thereby allowing for improved customization of the starting platform.

Removable Display

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 14, in some embodiments, the platform assembly 10 includes a removable display 42. The display 42 may be a trainer's display, a lane number plate, and/or provide other visual information as desired. As a non-limiting example, the display 42 may provide information to a swimmer such as, but not limited to, a list of training exercises to be accomplished. In certain embodiments, the display 42 may be various types of display boards as desired, including but not limited to boards that a person may write on and/or attach items. In one non-limiting example, the display 42 may be an erasable display board such as but not limited to a white board. In various embodiments, the removable display 42 is configured to face the pool (e.g., is proximate to the front end 12 of the platform 14) and at an elevated location such that a swimmer within the pool may observe information on the display while in the pool and/or without requiring the swimmer to stop, reach up, and find the paper on the deck (with their wet hands) to read the next exercise or other information.

As illustrated in FIG. 1, for example, the display 42 may be supported on a portion of the platform assembly 10 as desired. In certain embodiments, the display 42 is positioned on the platform assembly facing the pool. In one non-limiting example, and as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 16, the display 42 may be supported on the backstroke bar 30.

The display 42 may attach to the frame 62 and/or other component of the platform assembly 10 using various devices or mechanisms as desired. Referring to FIGS. 14-16, in some embodiments, the display 42 includes an engagement component 63. In the embodiment of FIG. 14, the engagement component 63 is a magnetic component for selectively engaging the display 42.

FIGS. 15 and 16 illustrate another example of a display 1542 according to various embodiments. The display 1542 is substantially similar to the display 42 except that the display 1542 includes an engagement component 1563 with one or more hooks 1565. The engagement component 1563 may be secured to the display 1542 using a fastener 1549, and the hooks 1565 may overlap a portion of the platform assembly 10 to attach the display 1542 to the platform assembly 10.

FIGS. 17-19 illustrate another example of a display 1742 according to various embodiments. The display 1742 is substantially similar to the display 42 except that the display 1742 includes two engagement components 1763 for engaging portions of the platform assembly 10, and the engagement components 1763 are separately secured to the display 1742.

Mounting Step

Referring to FIG. 1, in some embodiments, the platform assembly 10 includes the mounting step 26. The mounting step 26 may extend outwards from one side of the frame 62, and in certain embodiments, the mounting step 26 extends outwards from or beyond a side of the platform 14. When included, the mounting step 26 may be utilized to facilitate stepping onto the platform 14 from the pool deck. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the mounting step 26 is fixed relative to the frame 62 and/or the platform 14.

FIGS. 20 and 21 illustrate another embodiment of a mounting step 2026 in which the mounting step 26 is movable (represented by arrow 2045) relative to the frame 62 and/or the platform 14. Various mechanisms and/or devices may be included with the mounting step 2026 such that it is movable relative to the frame 62, including but not limited to hinge mechanism, a movable joint, telescoping members, combinations thereof, and/or other mechanisms or devices as desired. In the embodiment of FIGS. 20 and 21, the mounting step 2026 may be movable from a deployed position (FIG. 20) to a retracted position (FIG. 21) and vice versa. Such movement may allow for the mounting step 2026 to be in the deployed position and used when needed and to be stowed to minimize obstructions when the step 2026 is not needed.

Backstroke Bar

Referring to FIG. 1, in various embodiments, the platform assembly 10 includes the backstroke bar 30. The backstroke bar 30 may include a generally horizontal portion 21 and/or one or more sets of vertical handles 23. The horizontal portion 21 may connect the vertical handles 23. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the backstroke bar 30 includes two sets of vertical handles 23—an upper set of vertical handles 23A and a lower set of vertical handles 23B. In some embodiments with a plurality of sets of vertical handles 23, the vertical handles 23 may be vertically aligned as illustrated in FIG. 1. Grips, which may be similar to or different from the grips 58, may be provided on one or more of the vertical handles 23 as desired.

In other embodiments, and as illustrated in FIGS. 22, 23, and 26, the backstroke bar 2230 may include offset vertical handles 23 such that the platform assembly 2210 includes at least two different spans of vertical handles 23. In various embodiments, at least one upper vertical handle 23A is not vertically aligned with at least one lower vertical handle 23B. In the embodiment of FIGS. 22, 23, and 26, the upper set of vertical handles 23A are spaced apart by a distance that is greater than a distance between the lower set of vertical handles 23B. The offset vertical handles of the backstroke bar 2230 may allow for the platform assembly 2210 to conform to swimming rulings and standards set by all ruling bodies and/or may also allow the platform assembly 2210 to accommodate a range of sizes from elite to child swimmers.

Wedge Anchor

Referring to FIGS. 27-29, in various embodiments, a platform assembly such as the platform assemblies 10, 2010, 2210 may include a wedge anchor 2771. The wedge anchor 2771 includes an anchor body 2781 defining a receiving area 2773 for receiving a lower portion of the frame 62. Optionally, a wedge 2779 may be provided within the receiving area 2773 to provide further engagement with the frame 62 within the receiving area 2773.

Anchor wings 2775 may extend outwards from the wedge anchor 2771. In certain embodiments, the anchor wings 2775 may extend outwards from an end of the anchor body 2781. Optionally, the anchor wings 2775 may be a planar structure as illustrated in FIGS. 27-29, although in other embodiments the anchor wings 2775 may have other shapes or profiles as desired. The anchor wings 2775 may facilitate securing of the wedge anchor 2771 to rebar and may facilitate electrical bonding to the rebar or other grounded members within a pool deck such as a concrete pool deck. The anchor wings 2775 optionally include securing features such as notches 2777 and/or apertures to further facilitate securing of the wedge anchor 2771 to rebar and/or electrical bonding. The wedge anchor 2771 with the anchor wings 2775 may ensure that the wedge anchor 2771 is properly positioned relative to the pool wall and held securely in place during the installation of the deck or portions thereof.

Exemplary concepts or combinations of features of the invention may include:

• • A. A platform assembly including at least one of an informational panel, a storage device, or a display region.
  • B. A swimmer starting platform assembly including a frame and each of an informational panel, a storage device, and a display region either attached to or formed by the frame.
  • C. A method of changing appearance of a swimmer starting platform assembly including detaching a first panel from a frame of the assembly and attaching a second panel to the frame of the assembly.
  • D. A starting platform assembly comprising a platform and side handles, wherein the side handles extend at an angle in the range of approximately 65°-approximately 115° relative to the platform.
  • E. The starting platform assembly according to statement D, wherein the side handles are above a top surface of the platform.
  • F. The starting platform assembly according to statements A or B, wherein the side handles extend outwards from sides of the platform.
  • G. A starting platform assembly comprising a platform and side handles, wherein the side handles each include a parallel handle portion extending parallel to the platform and a perpendicular handle portion extending at an angle in the range of approximately 65°-approximately 115° relative to the platform.
  • H. The starting platform assembly according to statement G, wherein the parallel handle portion and the perpendicular handle portion of each side handle is above a top surface of the platform.
  • I. The starting platform assembly according to statements G or H, wherein a length of the parallel handle portion is different from a length of the perpendicular handle portion of each side handle.
  • J. A side handle for a starting platform, the side handle comprising a base, a parallel handle portion, and a perpendicular handle portion, wherein the base is configured to connect the side handle to the starting platform such that the parallel handle portion extends parallel to the starting platform and the perpendicular handle portion extends perpendicular to the starting platform.
  • K. A starting platform assembly comprising a platform and side handles, wherein the side handles extend perpendicular to the platform.
  • L. A starting platform assembly comprising a platform and side handles, wherein the side handles each include a parallel handle portion extending parallel to the platform and a perpendicular handle portion extending perpendicular to the starting platform.
  • M. A wedge anchor for a starting platform assembly, the wedge anchor comprising an anchor body for receiving a portion of a frame of the starting platform assembly and anchor wings extending outwards from the anchor body.
  • N. The wedge anchor according to statement M, wherein the anchor wings are provided at an end of the anchor body.
  • O. The wedge anchor according to statement M or N, wherein the anchor wings are planar.
  • P. The wedge anchor according to any one of statements M-O, wherein the anchor wings comprise securing features for securing the anchor wings to rebar and/or for electrically bonding the wedge anchor.
  • Q. A starting platform assembly comprising the wedge anchor according to any one of statements M-P, a frame, and a starting platform supported by the frame, wherein the frame is at least partially received in a receiving area of the anchor body of the wedge anchor.
  • R. A backstroke bar for a starting platform, the backstroke bar comprising a first set of vertical handles and a second set of vertical handles, wherein the first set of vertical handles span a first distance, and wherein the second set of vertical handles span a second distance different from the first distance.
  • S. The backstroke bar according to statement R, wherein the first set of vertical handles are upper vertical handles, wherein the second set of vertical handles are lower vertical handles, and wherein the first distance is greater than the second distance.
  • T. The backstroke bar according to statement R or S, wherein the first set of vertical handles are upper vertical handles, wherein the second set of vertical handles are lower vertical handles, and wherein the first distance is less than the second distance.
  • U. The backstroke bar according to statement R, S, or T, further comprising a horizontal portion connecting the vertical handles.
  • V. A backstroke bar for a starting platform, the backstroke bar comprising at least one upper vertical handle and at least one lower vertical handle, wherein the at least one upper vertical handle is not vertically aligned with the at least one lower vertical handle.
  • W. The backstroke bar according to statement V, wherein the at least one upper handle comprises a first upper vertical handle and a second upper vertical handle, wherein the at least one lower vertical handle comprises a first lower vertical handle and a second lower vertical handle, wherein the upper vertical handles are not vertically aligned with the lower vertical handles.
  • X. The backstroke bar according to statement V or W, further comprising a horizontal portion connecting the at least one upper vertical handle with the at least one lower vertical handle.
  • Y. The backstroke bar according to any one of statements V-X, further comprising a grip on the at least one upper vertical handle and the at least one lower vertical handle.

These examples are not intended to be mutually exclusive, exhaustive, or restrictive in any way, and the invention is not limited to these example embodiments but rather encompasses all possible modifications and variations within the scope of any claims ultimately drafted and issued in connection with the invention (and their equivalents). For avoidance of doubt, any combination of features not physically impossible or expressly identified as non-combinable herein may be within the scope of the invention. Finally, references to “pools” and “swimming pools” herein may also refer to other water containing vessels used for recreation or competition.

The subject matter of embodiments is described herein with specificity to meet statutory requirements, but this description is not necessarily intended to limit the scope of the claims. The claimed subject matter may be embodied in other ways, may include different elements or steps, and may be used in conjunction with other existing or future technologies. This description should not be interpreted as implying any particular order or arrangement among or between various steps or elements except when the order of individual steps or arrangement of elements is explicitly described. Directional references such as “up,” “down,” “top,” “bottom,” “left,” “right,” “front,” and “back,” among others, are intended to refer to the orientation as illustrated and described in the figure (or figures) to which the components and directions are referencing. Throughout this disclosure, a reference numeral with a letter refers to a specific instance of an element and the reference numeral without an accompanying letter refers to the element generically or collectively. Thus, as an example (not shown in the drawings), device “12A” refers to an instance of a device class, which may be referred to collectively as devices “12” and any one of which may be referred to generically as a device “12”. In the figures and the description, like numerals are intended to represent like elements. As used herein, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes singular and plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

The above-described aspects are merely possible examples of implementations, merely set forth for a clear understanding of the principles of the present disclosure. Many variations and modifications may be made to the above-described embodiment(s) without departing substantially from the spirit and principles of the present disclosure. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included herein within the scope of the present disclosure, and all possible claims to individual aspects or combinations of elements or steps are intended to be supported by the present disclosure. Moreover, although specific terms are employed herein, as well as in the claims that follow, they are used only in a generic and descriptive sense, and not for the purposes of limiting the described embodiments, nor the claims that follow.

Claims

1. A starting platform assembly for a swimming pool, the starting platform assembly comprising a platform and side handles, wherein at least a portion of the side handles extend at an angle in a range of approximately 65°-approximately 115° relative to a center axis of the platform.

2. The starting platform assembly of claim 1, wherein the side handles are above a top surface of the platform.

3. The starting platform assembly of claim 1, wherein the side handles extend outwards from sides of the platform.

4. A starting platform assembly comprising a platform and side handles, wherein the side handles each include a parallel handle portion extending parallel to a center axis of the platform and a perpendicular handle portion extending at an angle in a range of approximately 65°-approximately 115° relative to the center axis of the platform.

5. The starting platform assembly of claim 4, wherein the parallel handle portion and the perpendicular handle portion of each side handle is above a top surface of the platform.

6. The starting platform assembly of claim 5, wherein a length of the parallel handle portion is different from a length of the perpendicular handle portion of each side handle.

7. A side handle for a starting platform, the side handle comprising a base, a parallel handle portion, and a perpendicular handle portion, wherein the base is configured to connect the side handle to the starting platform such that the parallel handle portion extends parallel to a center axis of the starting platform and the perpendicular handle portion extends perpendicular to the center axis of the starting platform.

8. A wedge anchor for a starting platform assembly, the wedge anchor comprising:

an anchor body for receiving a portion of a frame of the starting platform assembly; and

anchor wings extending outwards from the anchor body.

9. The wedge anchor of claim 8, wherein the anchor wings are provided at an end of the anchor body.

10. The wedge anchor of claim 8, wherein the anchor wings are planar.

11. The wedge anchor of claim 8, wherein the anchor wings comprise securing features for securing the anchor wings to rebar and/or for electrically bonding the wedge anchor.

12. A starting platform assembly comprising the wedge anchor of claim 8, a frame, and a starting platform supported by the frame, wherein the frame is at least partially received in a receiving area of the anchor body of the wedge anchor.

13. A backstroke bar for a starting platform, the backstroke bar comprising a first set of vertical handles and a second set of vertical handles, wherein the first set of vertical handles span a first distance, and wherein the second set of vertical handles span a second distance different from the first distance.

14. The backstroke bar of claim 13, wherein the first set of vertical handles are upper vertical handles, wherein the second set of vertical handles are lower vertical handles, and wherein the first distance is greater than the second distance.

15. The backstroke bar of claim 13, wherein the first set of vertical handles are upper vertical handles, wherein the second set of vertical handles are lower vertical handles, and wherein the first distance is less than the second distance.

16. The backstroke bar of claim 13, further comprising a horizontal portion connecting the vertical handles.

17. A backstroke bar for a starting platform, the backstroke bar comprising at least one upper vertical handle and at least one lower vertical handle, wherein the at least one upper vertical handle is not vertically aligned with the at least one lower vertical handle.

18. The backstroke bar of claim 17, wherein the at least one upper handle comprises a first upper vertical handle and a second upper vertical handle, wherein the at least one lower vertical handle comprises a first lower vertical handle and a second lower vertical handle, wherein the upper vertical handles are not vertically aligned with the lower vertical handles.

19. The backstroke bar of claim 17, further comprising a horizontal portion connecting the at least one upper vertical handle with the at least one lower vertical handle.

20. The backstroke bar of claim 17, further comprising a grip on the at least one upper vertical handle and the at least one lower vertical handle.